Microwave-attenuating composite materials, methods for preparing the same, intermediates for preparing the same, devices containing the same, methods of preparing such a device, and methods of attenuating microwaves

Abstract

The present invention provides microwave attenuating, filled composite materials which contain a polymer or ceramic matrix and metallic tubules and processes for making the same and devices which contain such materials.

1. A composite material, comprising a plurality of metal microtubules, wherein said metal microtubules are dispersed in either a flexible polyurethane or a fabric or a sheet formed from polymeric fibers, and wherein said metal microtubules are present in an amount of 1 to 15 weight %, based on the total weight of said composite material. 
   
   
     2. The composite material of  claim 1 , which forms or is part of an article of clothing. 
   
   
     3. The composite material of  claim 1 , which is a flexible antenna. 
   
   
     4. The composite material of  claim 1 , which is a personal communications antenna for transmission over a range of frequencies when added to clothing to form a flexible antenna for wear.